Osaka-Based Short Film 'A Walk into the Future' Officially Selected for Ukraine's ICJ International Film Awards 2026, Co-produced by FunMake Inc.

FunMake Inc. (Headquarters: Kita-ku, Osaka; CEO: Kenta Ichii), a company involved in creator management, YouTuber collaborations, and video production, has announced that its short film, 'Midori Osaka's After 5 Routine: Routine 1 - A Walk into the Future,' co-produced with U.M.I Film makers, has been officially selected for the ICJ International Film Awards 2026, an international film festival held in Ukraine. The work was chosen from over 2,500 submissions from around the world.

The film was screened in the festival's opening program on May 14, 2026. Future screenings include a red carpet event in Western Ukraine in September and showings in 100 schools across Ukraine as part of the 'Cinema in Schools' program.

About the Official Selection for ICJ International Film Awards 2026 The film was recognized for its expressive quality as a non-verbal work, constructing its narrative solely through visuals and sound without any dialogue.

Film Overview Title: 'Midori Osaka's After 5 Routine: Routine 1 - A Walk into the Future' Co-production: FunMake Inc. / U.M.I Film makers Co-directors: Kenta Ichii (CEO, FunMake Inc.) / Takayuki Takenobu (U.M.I Film makers) Starring: Masumi Tange (T-works) Format: Non-verbal (short film with no dialogue)

Synopsis The story is set at an intersection near Grand Front Osaka in Osaka. The protagonist, Midori Osaka, is walking home after work, wondering if she is on the right path in her career and life. Suddenly, a strange phenomenon occurs in the sky above Osaka, and spacetime begins to warp. She is confronted with a turning point in her daily life, facing another possibility—the future if she turns right at the intersection, and the future if she turns left.

Screening Schedule - May 14, 2026: Opening Program - September 12, 2026 (Planned): Red carpet event at Uzhhorod Castle in Western Ukraine - 'Cinema in Schools' Program: Scheduled for screening in 100 schools across Ukraine (a joint project with the Max Thaur International Film Festival). *Venues and dates are subject to change by the organizers depending on local conditions.

Comment from Co-director Kenta Ichii "This work attempts to depict 'someone's turning point' through non-verbal visual expression. We are incredibly honored that it was selected from over 2,500 international submissions for the ICJ International Film Awards 2026 and will be shown on a historic stage in Ukraine and in 100 schools. We will continue to pursue the possibilities of visual expression that transcends language."

Comment from Co-director Takayuki Takenobu "'Midori Osaka's After 5 Routine' is a short sci-fi film that portrays a bit of science fiction hidden right next to the familiar scenery of Osaka. I hope audiences enjoy the small distortion in the world that occurs during a short walk home from work."

About FunMake Inc. FunMake Inc. is a creator management company originating from Kyoto University with its headquarters in Grand Green Osaka, Osaka. The company's business includes YouTuber management, corporate collaborations, video production, and digital advertising.